The terms translation and localization are frequently used interchangeably. However, knowing the distinction between these two terms, processes, and services will enhance your understanding of the business. It also allows you to expand your site’s reach efficiently and profitably.
What Is Localization?
Localization is the modification of your content and website design so it will be appropriate for a specific country or region. This usually involves translating your content into another language. It can also include other changes like adapting cultural references, local customs, and currencies. Professional localization services by CPSL can help ensure that your content is accurate, culturally relevant, and engaging for your target audience.
What is Translation?
The translation is the process of converting text from one language to another. It is a straightforward process that can be done using online tools or hiring a professional translator. Professional translation services can help ensure that your text is accurately translated and culturally relevant to your target audience.
Benefits of Localization and Translation Services
There are many benefits to localization and translation services. Perhaps the most obvious benefit is that it allows you to expand your business into new markets. Localization and translation services can help you reach new customers in other countries or regions.
Other companies use localization and translation services to improve their search engine optimization (SEO). By optimizing your website for different languages and regions, you can make your site more visible to search engines and potential customers.
When to Use Localization and Translation Services
Many industries can benefit from localization and translation services. Here are 5 instances where you should consider using these services:
1. When Releasing A New Product or Service
If you plan to release a new product or service, it is important to localize your content to be relevant to your target market. This includes translating your content into the local language and customizing it for the local culture.
For example, if you are releasing a new product in Japan, you will not only need to translate your content into Japanese but also ensure it is culturally appropriate.
2. When Entering A New Market
Localizing your content can be handy if you need to expand your business into a new market. This includes translating your content into the local language and customizing it for the local culture. In this case, localization can help you avoid potential cultural missteps and ensure that your content is relevant to your target audience.
3. When Hosting an Event in a Different Country
Hosting an event in a new location may require localization of your content for that market. You have to translate your content into the local language and customize it for the local culture. Localization can help you ensure that your event is successful by ensuring that your content is relevant and accessible to your target audience.
4. When Launching a New Website
Localizing your content is also important when you have invested in a new business website. It involves translating your content into the local language and customizing it for the local culture.
If you are launching the product in a remote location, you have to make sure that the site is fully localized for users to access and understand.
5. When Creating Marketing Materials
Companies tend to have a lot of materials like brochures, product descriptions, and website content. When creating marketing materials for a global audience, you’ll need to localize your content for each market. This starts by translating your content into the local language and customizing it for the local culture. Localization can help you ensure that your materials are relevant and accessible to your target audience.
6. When translating Important Documents
When you are translating company documents, a professional localization service will ensure that your documents are accurately translated and culturally appropriate for your target audience. Professional localization services can also help you ensure that your documents are legally binding in the target country.
Conclusion
Localization and translation services can have a positive impact on your bottom line. If you’re looking to expand your business globally or reach a new market, these services can help you achieve your goals. When used correctly, localization and translation services can help you build trust with your target audience, avoid cultural missteps, and ensure that your content is relevant and accessible.